But I have all, and abound: I am full, having received of Epaphroditus the things which were sent from you, an odour of a sweet smell, a sacrifice acceptable, wellpleasing to God.

PHILIPPIANS 4:18KJV
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Philippians 4:18 (KJV)

What does Philippians 4:18 mean?

Philippians 4:18 describes Paul telling the Philippian church that he has received everything they sent him, and he is more than satisfied. Paul says their gifts, delivered by Epaphroditus, are like a fragrant offering and a sacrifice that pleases God.

Paul is writing this letter from prison, thanking the believers in Philippi for their generous support. He uses the language of worship and sacrifice to show that their practical help is not just kindness to him, but something God values deeply. Paul’s words connect their gift to Old Testament sacrifices, highlighting its spiritual importance.

The Greek behind Philippians 4:18

  • ὀσμή (osmē, "odour") and εὐωδίας (euōdias, "sweet smell"): These words together paint a picture of a pleasing aroma, often used in the Greek Old Testament for sacrifices that God accepts. Paul is saying their gift is not just helpful, but spiritually beautiful to God.
  • θυσία (thysia, "sacrifice"): Paul calls their support a "sacrifice," showing he sees their generosity as an act of worship, not just charity.
  • εὐάρεστος (euarestos, "wellpleasing"): This word means something that brings delight or satisfaction. Paul emphasizes that their gift is not just enough for him, but is truly pleasing to God.

Why Philippians 4:18 matters

  • Philippians 4:18 shows that practical help and generosity are seen by God as acts of worship, not just human kindness.
  • Paul’s use of sacrificial language connects the Philippians’ giving to the bigger story of worship in the Bible, making their everyday actions spiritually significant.
  • This verse helps clarify that Christian giving is not just about meeting needs, but about offering something valuable to God Himself.

Where else these words appear

“Epaphroditus” Greek G1891 · used in 3 verses

  • Philippians 2:25 Yet I supposed it necessary to send to you Epaphroditus, my brother, and companion in labour, and fellowsoldier, but your messenger, and he that ministered to my wants.
  • Philippians 4:23 The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen. To the Philippians written from Rome, by Epaphroditus.

“smell” Greek G2175 · used in 3 verses

  • 2 Corinthians 2:15 For we are unto God a sweet savour of Christ, in them that are saved, and in them that perish:
  • Ephesians 5:2 And walk in love, as Christ also hath loved us, and hath given himself for us an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweetsmelling savour.

“odour” Greek G3744 · used in 5 verses

  • John 12:3 Then took Mary a pound of ointment of spikenard, very costly, and anointed the feet of Jesus, and wiped his feet with her hair: and the house was filled with the odour of the ointment.
  • 2 Corinthians 2:14 Now thanks be unto God, which always causeth us to triumph in Christ, and maketh manifest the savour of his knowledge by us in every place.
  • 2 Corinthians 2:16 To the one we are the savour of death unto death; and to the other the savour of life unto life. And who is sufficient for these things?

“acceptable” Greek G1184 · used in 5 verses

  • Luke 4:19 To preach the acceptable year of the Lord.
  • Luke 4:24 And he said, Verily I say unto you, No prophet is accepted in his own country.
  • Acts 10:35 But in every nation he that feareth him, and worketh righteousness, is accepted with him.